With so many young people experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety these days, parents often worry about the risk of youth suicide. And yes, suicide is the second leading cause of death among ages 15 – 24. But, as this week’s guest, Dr. Dan Reidenberg, explains, young people are the least likely age to die by suicide, with middle-aged adults the most likely. Furthermore, Dr. Reidenberg says, “Suicide is the most preventable death there is.”

 

Don’t miss this informative, practical discussion that addresses how to talk with your child if you fear they are thinking of suicide; both positive and negative aspects of social media as related to youth suicide; whether kids talk about suicide just to get attention; and the possibility of “suicide contagion.” Most important, learn how crucial it is to be clear, concise and concrete if you believe your child is thinking of suicide. Simple statements like, “This is a very serious thing. We are going to do something about it,” can make all the difference! You won't want to miss this episode with Dr. Dan Reidenberg, Executive Director of SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education).

 

WHAT WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT TAKEAWAY IN THIS EPISODE ABOUT PREVENTING SUICIDE? 

In this discussion about youth suicide, what did you learn that surprised you? What were the most important pieces of advice you took away from Dr. Reidenberg’s answers to questions?

 

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PREVENTING SUICIDE? 

❉ THE SUICIDE SURVIVORS’ CLUB: ONE FAMILY’S EFFORT TO BRING SUICIDE OUT OF THE SHADOWS. A parent’s death is devastating to the surviving spouse and children. But when the death is by suicide, stigma may lead to silence and isolation, and suicide survivors often experience the added pain of guilt, shame, confusion and anger. Rebecca Anderson and her children lost their husband and father to suicide in 2002 and, since then, have taken steps to challenge the stigma of mental illness and suicide, using their experience to support others facing such a tragic loss. Tune in to this episode to learn more.

 

❉ HAZELDEN BETTY FORD FOUNDATION WEBINAR: STOP THE YOUTH SUICIDE CRISIS. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10 to 34 in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology says depression rates among teenagers are on the rise. Join Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation and watch this pre-recorded webinar on addressing this critical issue.